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Catharanthus roseus produces medicinally important terpenoid indole alkaloids (TIAs) such as vindoline, vinblastine, and vincristine, but in very small amounts. The various microbial consortium consisting of plant growth-promoting and alkaloid enhancing endophytes were developed in order to enhance the overall productivity of such pharmaceutically important alkaloids. Furthermore, we attempted to identify the endophytic consortia suitable to maximally improve the content and yield of TIAs in field-grown C. roseus cultivars during the winter and summer seasons. The consortium, CATDLF5 + CATPS2 (Curvularia sp.+Bacillus pumilis), improves leaf weight in all C. roseus cultivars during winter and summer. On the alkaloids front, the consortium, CATDLF5 + CATPS2, maximally enhanced the vindoline content and yield in C. roseus cvs. Prabal and Nirmal during both winter and summer seasons; but different consortia were effective for improving vindoline content and yield in cv. Dhawal during different seasons. Whereas co-inoculation of CATDLF6 + CATPR13 (Choanephora infundibulifera + Paenibacillus sp.) and CATDLF5 + CATPS2 consortium maximally enhanced vindoline content and yield, respectively, in C. roseus cv. Dhawal during winter; but during summer, CATDLF6 + V3 (Choanephora infundibulifera + Micrococcus sp.) maximally increased both vindoline content and yield in C. roseus cv. Dhawal. The presence of vincristine and vinblastine are maximally detected in C. roseus plants during summer season. The consortium of CATDLF5 + CATPR13 (Curvularia sp. + Paenibacillus sp.) maximally enhanced the content as well as yield of vincristine and vinblastine in C. roseus cvs. Prabal and Nirmal plants, while CATDLF6 + CATPR13 inoculation showed maximal improvement in the content and yield of vinblastine and vincristine in C. roseus cv. Dhawal plants. This study identifies the best combination of endophytes that can maximize the plant growth and TIAs yield in various C. roseus plant cultivars under field conditions for both winter and summer seasons.

Rapid procedure for the separation of andrographolide from Andrographis paniculata leaves was developed to furnish a certified reference material (CRM). Andrographolide is the principle compounds, which attributed to define the quality and efficacy of A. paniculata derived medicinal products. First time, authentication, sample preparation, homogeneity, storage stability, trueness and reliability assignment by uncertainty measurement of andrographolide by high performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) were illustrated in the present paper. The impurity in the samples due to residual moisture, inorganic and organic was determined by Karl-Fisher titration, thermogravimetric analysis, and differential scanning calorimetry methods, respectively. Following the EURACHEM/CITAC guide of CG-4 statistical procedure, the certified value and corresponding expanded uncertainty of andrographolide CRM was assigned to be 99.33% ± 0.02% (k = 2) with one year stability (p

The addition of biochar in acidic mine spoils contaminated areas has been suggested for buffering and improving the fertility as well as the reduction in the metal bioavailability. This study evaluated the effect of biochar on reducing the heavy metal content in the Bacopa monnieri L. grown in the biochar amended acidic mine spoil and associated toxicological risks. The mine spoil (overburden) was treated with a biochar made from the fast pyrolysis of waste of Cymbopogon flexuosus at 450 °C at application rates of 15% and 20%. Plant analysis (biomass, chlorophyll, protein and lipid peroxidises), metabolite content and metal levels (Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe and Pb) in the Bacopa monnieri L. herb. Hazardous quotient and acute oral toxicity of plant and its extract cultivated was carried out. The results showed that biochar amendment significantly improved biomass of the plant as well as reduced the metal content in plant tissues. The concentrations of Al, Cd, Cr, Cu, Fe and Pb in the plant tissues were within the international permissible limits. The risk assessment for bacopa consumption showed that the hazard quotients values were lower than the threshold level for herb ( Bacopa monnieri L., if consumed.

The quinolinate phosphoribosyl transferase (QPT) is a key enzyme that converts quinolinic acid into nicotinic acid mononucleotide. The QPT gene plays an essential role in the pyridine nucleotide cycle as well as in the biosynthetic pathway of the alkaloid nicotine. However, a clear role for QPT is yet to be characterized to validate the actual function of this gene in planta. In this study, an RNA interference (RNAi) approach was used to reveal the functional role of QPT. Transformation and analysis of the hairy roots (HRs) of the Nicotiana leaf explants was used, followed by plant regeneration and analysis. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of the HRs and of the regenerated plants both revealed altered alkaloid biosynthetic cycle, with a substantially reduced content of nicotine and anabasine. The transgenic plants exhibited a significantly altered phenotype and growth pattern. Also, silencing of QPT led to a decrease in chlorophyll content, maximum quantum efficiency of PSII, net CO2 assimilation and starch content. Results clearly demonstrated that QPT was not only involved in the biosynthetic pathway of the alkaloids but also affected plant growth and development. Our results provide information to be considered when trying to engineer the secondary metabolite quality and quantity.

A clinical emergency stands due to the appearance of drug resistant Plasmodium strains necessitate novel and effective antimalarial chemotypes, where plants seem as the prime option, especially after the discovery of quinine and artemisinin. The present study was aimed towards bioprospecting leaves of Flueggea virosa for its antimalarial efficacy and active principles. Crude hydro-ethanolic extract along with solvent derived fractions were tested in vitro against Plasmodium falciparum CQ sensitive (3D7) and resistant (K1) strains, where all the fractions exhibited potential activity (IC50 values

The elucidation of biochar properties across the various temperature ranges is necessary for the preparation of tailor made biochar from any feed stock. This paper reports selected physicochemical properties of biochar prepared from the residue of Mentha arvensis pyrolyzed at 450, 650 and 850 °C. Ultimate and proximate analyses, product distribution (bio-oil and biochar), TGA, Calorific values, FTIR, functional group analyses, cation exchange capacity and calcium carbonate equivalence of biochars revealed the variations and suitability of biochar for as a fuel feed stock and/or soil amendment. Bio-oil and biochars produced at 850 °C contained the highest carbon content (68 and 87%, respectively), and energy content (32 MJ/kg and 6837 kcal/mol, respectively) and could be a promising alternative for replacements of non-renewable-fuels. Biochar produced at 450 °C had the highest available nutrient contents (P: 47.3 mg/kg, NH3–N: 28 mg/kg, and NO3–N: 0.6 mg/kg), cation exchange capacity (161.8 meq/100 g) and calcium carbonate equivalence (83.5%) suitable and economical for soil fertility enhancement and liming of highly acidic soils (enhanced the pH up to 2.8 units at 6% application rate).

Prostate cancer is one of the most common cancers in men. Diosgenin and related compounds are potential cytotoxic agents. Twelve diverse analogues of long chain fatty acid/ester of diosgenin-7-ketoxime have been prepared. Six of the analogues exhibited significant anticancer activity against a panel of human cancer cell lines with IC50 ranging from 12 to 35μM. Compound 16, the best representative of the series exerted S phase arrest in DU145 prostate cancer cells and induced apoptosis through caspase pathway. Additionally, these analogues inhibited lipopolysaccharide induced pro-inflammatory cytokines (TNF-α and IL-6) up to 47.7% and 23.3% respectively. Compound 16 was found to be safe in acute oral toxicity in Swiss albino mice up to 300mg/kg dose. The anticancer and antiinflammatory properties of compound 16 are important and can further be optimized for a better anti-prostate cancer candidate.

Breast cancer is the second leading cause of deaths in women globally. Present communication deals with design and synthesis of a few diarylnaphthyls as possible anti-breast cancer agents. Among the thirty three representatives with significant antiproliferative activity compounds 23 and 50 were quite efficacious against human breast cancer cells. Compound 50 induced apoptosis in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and exerted S phase and G2/M phase arrest respectively via distinct mechanistic pathways. It showed moderate microtubule destabilization. Further, it exhibited DNA topoisomerase-II inhibition effect in MCF-7 cells. It was well tolerable and found safe up to 300 mg/kg dose in Swiss albino mice. The dual action antiproliferative effect of compound 50 is quite interesting and warrants for future development.

In plants, geranylgeranyl diphosphate (GGPP, C20 ) synthesized by GGPP synthase (GGPPS) serves as precursor for vital metabolic branches including specialized metabolites. Here, we report the characterization of a GGPPS (CrGGPPS2) from the Madagascar periwinkle (Catharanthus roseus) and demonstrate its role in monoterpene (C10 )-indole alkaloids (MIA) biosynthesis. The expression of CrGGPPS2 was not induced in response to methyl jasmonate (MeJA), and was similar to the gene encoding type-I protein geranylgeranyltransferase_β subunit (CrPGGT-I_β), which modulates MIA formation in C. roseus cell cultures. Recombinant CrGGPPS2 exhibited a bona fide GGPPS activity by catalyzing the formation of GGPP as the sole product. Co-localization of fluorescent protein fusions clearly showed CrGGPPS2 was targeted to plastids. Downregulation of CrGGPPS2 by virus-induced gene silencing (VIGS) significantly decreased the expression of transcription factors and pathway genes related to MIA biosynthesis, resulting in reduced MIA. Chemical complementation of CrGGPPS2-vigs leaves with geranylgeraniol (GGol, alcoholic form of GGPP) restored the negative effects of CrGGPPS2 silencing on MIA biosynthesis. In contrast to VIGS, transient and stable overexpression of CrGGPPS2 enhanced the MIA biosynthesis. Interestingly, VIGS and transgenic-overexpression of CrGGPPS2 had no effect on the main GGPP-derived metabolites, cholorophylls and carotenoids in C. roseus leaves. Moreover, silencing of CrPGGT-I_β, similar to CrGGPPS2-vigs, negatively affected the genes related to MIA biosynthesis resulting in reduced MIA. Overall, this study demonstrated that plastidial CrGGPPS2 plays an indirect but necessary role in MIA biosynthesis. We propose that CrGGPPS2 might be involved in providing GGPP for modifying proteins of the signaling pathway involved in MIA biosynthesis.

This study focused on the in-vivo sustained release of oxytetracycline (OTC) loaded on di-aldehyde cellulose (DAC). The periodate oxidation method was used for the synthesis of DAC. The prepared DAC-OTC material was characterized by different techniques such as Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Fourier transforms infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and particle size analyzer. The pharmacokinetic studies were performed on DAC-OTC composite system and commercial tablet (COTA). The results of pharmacokinetic studies demonstrated that DAC-OTC exhibited higher area under the curve (AUC) (482.8 μghmL-1) as compared to COTA (90.72 μghmL-1). DAC-OTC composite system has double compartment pattern with improvement in mean residing time (MRT) and area under moment curve (AUMC0-∞) than the commercial tablet (2.8 and 15.13 folds higher, respectively). Swelling index of DAC-OTC at different pH and pKa of OTC release imply that controlled in-vivo release in DAC-OTC composite system could be due to the simultaneous occurrence of the covalent and hydrogen bond between OTC and di-aldehyde cellulose. These results indicate that di-aldehyde cellulose may improve the in-vivo bioavailability of OTC.

Secondary metabolite biosynthesis in medicinal plants is multi-step cascade known to be modulated by associated endophytes. While a single endophyte is not able to upregulate all biosynthetic steps, limiting maximum yield achievement. Therefore to compliment the deficient characteristics in an endophyte we tried consortium of endophytes to achieve maximum yield. Here, efforts were made to maximize the in planta morphine yield, using consortium of two endophytes; SM1B (Acinetobacter sp.) upregulating most of the genes of morphine biosynthesis except T6ODM and CODM, and SM3B (Marmoricola sp.) upregulating T6ODM and CODM in alkaloid-less Papaver somniferum cv. Sujata. Consortium-inoculation significantly increased morphine and thebaine content, and also increased the photosynthetic efficiency of poppy plants resulted in increased biomass, capsule weight, and seed yields compared to single-inoculation. The increment in morphine content was due to the modulation of metabolic-flow of key intermediates including reticuline and thebaine, via upregulating pertinent biosynthetic genes and enhanced expression of COR, key gene for morphine biosynthesis. This is the first report demonstrating the endophytic-consortium complimenting the functional deficiency of one endophyte by another for upregulating multiple genes of a metabolic pathway similar to transgenics (overexpressing multiple genes) for obtaining enhanced yield of pharmaceutically important metabolites.

Duranta erecta L.is a valuable herb used in traditional system of medicine in India and China for the treatment of malaria and abscesses. The presence of phenylethanoid (e.g., acteoside as major bioactive) in addition to iridoid and flavonoids glycosides are mainly responsible for reported pharmacological properties. Although D. erecta is widely used in many Asian countries, the quality assurance of raw herb and its derived products are still in question, due to the lack of validated protocol. Current Indian guidelines for quality assurance of phytopharmaceutical product demands accurate determination of minimum four chemicals. Moreover, there is no chromatographic method to simultaneously analyse acteoside, isoacteoside, durantoside I, quercetin, and methylapigenin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranuronate in D. erecta. The present study establishes a systematic approach for the quality evaluation of D. erecta with efficient and validated UPLC-PDA method that simultaneously analyses the five bioactive marker chemicals in D. erecta . A fast, sensitive, and reliable ultraperformance liquid chromatography-photodiode array (UPLC–PDA) method was developed for the quantification five marker compounds-acteoside, isoacteoside, durantoside-I, quercetin, and methylapigenin-7-O-β-D-glucopyranuronate in D. erecta . The optimized UPLC conditions on Reverse phase column Phenomenex Luna® (C 18 , 2.5 μm, 2.0 × 100 mm)) and binary gradient elution resulted in best separation for all five targeted phytoconstituents. Validation characteristics viz. linearity (r 2 >0.999), accuracy (%RSD −1 ; LOQ- 0.90–1.35 μg mL −1 ) were satisfying the ICH criteria. Uncertainty in the measurement was also estimated using method validation data and other sources to fulfil the technical requirement of ISO 17,025:2017. It is the first validated method that provides the simultaneous and accurate analysis of five bioactive phytoconstituents of D. erecta in short time with defined traceability and accuracy profile. Further, it delivers a holistic quality analysis of raw medicinal herb and its preparation.

Aim The aim of this study was to identify and characterize promising endophytes capable of enhancing the content of root alkaloids ajmalicine and serpentine in low alkaloid yielding genotype of Catharanthus roseus cultivar Prabal and the possible mechanisms involved. Method and result Of the four strains isolated from alkaloid-rich genotype of C. roseus cultivar Dhawal, endophytic strains CATDLF5 (Curvularia sp.) and CATDLF6 (Choanephora infundibulifera) enhanced serpentine content by 211·7-337·6%, while CATDRF2 (Aspergillus japonicus) and CATDS5 (Pseudomonas sp.) increased the content of ajmalicine by 123·4-203·8% in cultivar Prabal. Upregulated expression of key genes, geraniol 10-hydroxylase, tryptophan decarboxylase and strictosidine synthase involved in terpenoid indole alkaloid (TIA) biosynthetic pathway was observed in endophyte inoculated plants. Upregulated Octadecanoid-derivative Responsive Catharanthus AP2/ERF domain transcription activators like ORCA3 while, and downregulation of transcriptional repressor, ZCTs (Cys2/His2-type zinc finger protein family) enhanced the expression of genes for secondary metabolite production in endophyte-inoculated plants. Conclusion The present work concluded that the selected endophytes of C. roseus can enhance the ajmalicine and serpentine contents by modulating the expression of structural and regulatory genes of TIA biosynthetic pathway in root. Significance and impact of the study Endophytes can play an important role to enhance in planta content of pharmaceutically important alkaloids in C. roseus and can therefore be useful in reducing the cost of production of important alkaloids.

Diverse benzylidene indanones and their derivatives were synthesized as anticancer agents. Two of the analogues, that is 7 and 22, exhibited significant antiproliferative activity against several human cancer cell lines. Both the compounds possessed antimitotic activity and induced apoptosis in DLD1 colorectal adenocarcinoma cells through activation of caspase pathways. In cell cycle analysis, both the compounds induced predominantly G2/M phase arrest in DLD1 cells. Molecular docking studies revealed that compound 7 occupies colchicine binding pocket of β-tubulin. Both the compounds were safe in acute oral toxicity in rodents. Both the compounds are further being optimized for better efficacy.

Background: Decalepis arayalpathra (J. Joseph and V. Chandras.) Venter is used primarily for nutrition besides its therapeutic values. Traditional preparations/formulations from its tuber are used as a vitalizer and blood purifier drink. The folklore medicinal uses cover inflammation, cough, wound healing, antipyretic, and digestive system management. A comprehensive review of the current understanding of the plant is required due to emerging concerns over its safety and efficacy. Objective: The systematic collection of the authentic information from different sources with the critical discussion is summarised in order to address various issues related to botanical identity, therapeutic medicine, nutritional usage, phytochemical, and pharmacological potentials of the D. arayalpathra. Current use of traditional systems of medicine can be used to expand future research opportunities. Materials and Methods: Available scripted information was collected manually, from peered review research papers and international databases viz. Science Direct, Google Scholar, SciFinder, Scopus, etc. The unpublished resources which were not available in database were collected through the classical books of ‘Ayurveda’ and ‘Siddha’ published in regional languages. The information from books, Ph.D. and MSc dissertations, conference papers and government reports were also collected. We thoroughly screened the scripted information of classical books, titles, abstracts, reports, and full-texts of the journals to establish the reliability of the content. Results: Tuber bearing vanilla like signature flavor is due to the presence of 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (HMB). Among five other species, Decalepis arayalpathra (DA) has come under the ‘critically endangered’ category, due to over-exploitation for traditional, therapeutic and cool drink use. The experimental studies proved that it possesses gastro-protective, anti-tumor, and antiinflammatory activities. Some efforts were also made to develop better therapeutics by logical modifications in 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzaldehyde, which is a major secondary metabolite of D. arayalpathra. ‘Amruthapala’ offers the enormous opportunity to develop herbal drink with health benefits like gastro-protective, anti-oxidant and anti-inflammatory actions. Results: The plant has the potential to generate the investigational new lead (IND) based on its major secondary metabolite i.e. 2-Hydroxy-4-methoxy-benzaldehyde. The present mini-review summarizes the current knowledge on Decalepis arayalpathra, covering its phytochemical diversity, biological potentials, strategies for its conservation, and intellectual property rights (IPR) status. Chemical Compounds: 2-hydroxy-4-methoxybenzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 69600), α-amyrin acetate (Pubchem CID: 293754), Magnificol (Pubchem CID: 44575983), β-sitosterol (Pubchem CID: 222284), 3-hydroxy-p-anisaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 12127), Naringenin (Pubchem CID: 932), Kaempferol (Pubchem CID: 5280863), Aromadendrin (Pubchem CID: 122850), 3-methoxy-1,2-cyclopentanedione (Pubchem CID: 61209), p-anisaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 31244), Menthyl acetate (Pubchem CID: 27867), Benzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 240), p-cymene (Pubchem CID: 7463), Salicylaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 6998), 10-epi-γ-eudesmol (Pubchem CID: 6430754), α -amyrin (Pubchem CID: 225688), 3-hydroxy-4-methoxy benzaldehyde (Pubchem CID: 12127).

Ethnopharmacological relevance Kaempferia galanga L. rhizome (KGR) is part of more than sixty-one Ayurvedic formulations and commonly known as ‘Chandramula’. KGR is widely used in traditional Indian medicines to treat fever (jwar), rheumatism (Amavata), respiratory (Shwasa), hypertension (Vyanabala vaishamya) and cardiovascular disorders (Vyanavayu Dushtijanya Hrudrog). Although ethnomedicinal properties have extensively been demonstrated in traditional medicines of south-east countries i.e. China, India, Indonesia, and Malaysia, the chemico-biological validation are still lacking. Aim of the study Chemico-biological standardization with respect to its vasorelaxation potential is the main objective of the present study. To investigate the vasorelaxation potential of key phytochemical of KGR, i.e., ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate (EPMC) and to study it's the mechanism of action. Materials and methods A HPLC method was developed and validated for the quality assessment of KGR using its two major phytochemicals i.e. ethyl-p-methoxycinnamate (EPMC) and ethyl cinnamate (EC) in KGR. The vasorelaxation effect of major phytochemicals of KGR was evaluated on the main mesenteric arteries isolated from male Wistar rats. Specific BKca channel blocker tetraethylammonium (TEA), receptor antagonist, nitric oxide scavenging capacity, and antioxidant potential were also evaluated for its plausible mechanism. Results Present validated HPLC method facilitates simultaneous quantitation of EPMC and EC faster than classical GC techniques. EPMC has shown a dose-dependent relaxation in rat main mesenteric arteries (MMA) contracted by U46619 with an Emax of 58.68 ± 3.31%. Similarly, in endothelium-denuded MMA rings, relaxation was also observed (Emax of 61.83 ± 3.38%). Moreover, relaxation response to EPMC has strongly inhibited (Emax 14.76 ± 2.29%) when the tissue exposed to depolarizing high K+ containing buffer for the contraction. The point correlation dimension (pD2) values were also significantly decreased in high K+ treated arterial rings compared to control. Interestingly, when MMA rings incubated with a specific BKca channel blocker (TEA, 1 mM), the relaxation response to EPMC was also significantly blocked. Conclusions The first time this study demonstrated the chemical standardization of K. galanga rhizome and EPMC is responsible for its vasorelaxation potential as demonstrated by the endothelium-independent response mediated by Ca2+ dependent potassium channels.

The present study explores the differential responses of two genotypes (APwC: wild collection and APMS: mass selection line) of A. paniculata against the three application rates of arsenic (42, 126, and 200 mg kg−1). The oxidative enzymes, As accumulation in different tissues, plant growth, and content of pharmacologically important ent-labdane-related diterpenes (ent-LRDs) of the two genotypes were evaluated in the study. Results demonstrated that As uptake significantly reduced plant biomass in APwC and APMS by 5–41.5% and 9–33% in a dose-response manner, respectively. The APMS exhibited lower bioconcentration and translocation factors, higher As tolerance index, and higher content of ent-LRDs as compared to APWC. As treatment induced a decrease in the sum of four metabolite content of APMS (1.43 times) and an increase in that of APWC (1.12 times) as compared to control. Likewise, variance in the production of 5,7,2′,3′-tetramethoxyflavanone, and stress enzymes was also observed between APwC and APMS. The increase in the expression of ApCPS2 suggested its involvement in channeling of metabolic flux towards the biosynthesis of ent-LRDs under As stress.

Xanthones are naturally synthesized in various biological systems such as plants, lichens, and fungi and are stored as by-products. In addition to taxonomic significance they are also important in the treatment/management of a number of human disorders. Mangiferin and its derived lead molecule have never qualified for use in a clinical trial despite a number of pharmacological studies that have proven its effectiveness as an antioxidant, analgesic, antidiabetic, antiproliferative, chemopreventive, radioprotective, cardiotonic, immunomodulatory, and diuretic. For centuries in the traditional practice of medicine in India and China the use of plants containing mangiferin has been a major component for disease management and health benefits. While it resembles biflavones, the C-glucosyl xanthone (mangiferin) has great nutritional and medicinal significance due to its unique structural characteristics. The C-glycoside link of mangiferin, mimicked to nucleophilic phloroglucinol substitution, facilitates its bioavailability and also is responsible for its antioxidant properties. Researchers have also utilized its xanthonic framework for both pharmacophoric backbone and for its use as a substitution group for synthesis and prospects. To date more than 500 derivatives using about 80 reactions have been generated. These reactions include: lipid peroxidation, phosphorylation, glycosylation, methylation, fermentation, deglycosylation, hydrolysis, polymerization, sulfation, acylation, etherification, peroxidation among others. Multiple studies on efficacy and safety have increased the global demand of mangiferin-based food supplements. This review highlights the distribution of mangiferin in plants, its isolation, and assay methods applicable to different sample matrices. In addition we include updates on various strategies and derived products intended for designated pharmacological actions. © 2016 BioFactors, 2016

Andrographolide and neoandrographolide are major bioactive molecules of Andrographis paniculata, a well-known medicinal plant. These molecules exhibited varying degrees of anti-inflammatory and anticancer activities in-vitro and in-vivo. Role of begomovirus protein C2/TrAP in biosynthesis of andrographolide was identified through molecular modeling, docking and predicted results were substantiated by in vitro studies. Homology molecular modeling and molecular docking were performed to study the binding conformations and different bonding behaviors, in order to reveal the possible mechanism of action behind higher accumulation of andrographolide. It was concluded that C2/TrAP inhibit the activation of SNF1-Related Protein Kinase-1 (SnRK1) in terpenoid pathway and removes the negative regulation of 3-hydroxy-3-methylglutaryl-CoA reductase (HMGR) by SnRK1, leading to higher accumulation of andrographolide and neoandrographolide in begomovirus infected plants. The binding site residues of SnRK1 docked with C2/TrAP were found to be associated with ATP binding site, substrate binding site and activation loop. Predicted results were also validated by HPTLC. This study provides important insights into understanding the role of viral protein in altering the regulation of biosynthesis of andrographolide and could be used in future research to develop biomimetic methods for increasing the production of such phytometabolites having anti-cancerous and anti-inflammatory properties.

Metals reduction into submicro/nano size through bhasma preparations for therapeutic use is well established in ancient traditional system of Indian medicines i.e. Ayurveda. Recently, nanotechnology has drawn the attention of researchers to develeope various size and shape nanoparicles / composite for number of applications.In this article, we report the enrichment of lactone enriched fraction (LEF) by liquid-liquid portioning of Vernonia cinerea metabolic extract and sysnthesis of mediated nano-gold composite (LEF-AuNPs) in single step process. The morphological characteristic based on transmission electron microscope (TEM) image analysis showed that LEF-AuNPs were predominantly nanopolygons and nanobots in shapes ranging from 50-200 nm in size. Abundance of phytochemicals in both LEF and LEF-AuNPs was dissimilar. In LEF, montanol- a diterpenoid, while in LEF-AuNPs, neophytadiene- a phytanes was the major compound. HPLC profile of relatively polar compounds also varied drastically. In-vitro biocompatibility, cytotoxicity [MTT (3-[4,5-dimethylthiazol-2-yl]-2,5 diphenyl tetrazolium bromide) based assay] and storage stabilitiy of LEF-AuNPs were evaluated. The moderate ability of LEF-AuNPs to restrict parasitaemia, extended mean survival time of mice infected with Plasmodium berghei and lack of any evident toxicity provides new opportunities for the safe delivery and applications of such nanocomposites in malaria therapy.

Marigold (Tagetes spp.) is a source of thiophenes, which are a group of heterocyclic sulfurous compounds possessing strong biocidal activity, thus making Tagetes plants very useful as natural source of agents for controlling pathogens such as nematodes, insects, fungi and bacteria. Hairy root cultures of Tagetes erecta L. were developed using Agrobacterium rhizogenes mediated transformation. The hairy root clones showed great variations in growth pattern and total thiophene content (0.31 to 0.96 mg/gfw). Four types of thiophenes that accumulated in root cultures of Tagetes were butenenylbithiophene (BBT), hydroxybutenenylbithiophene (BBTOH), acetoxybutenenylbithiophene (BBTOAc) and α-terthienyl (α-T). Total thiophene contents in these isolated rhizoclones were found tobe four fold higher than that of wild type hairy root cultures. The developed method of producing hairy cultures of T. erecta can be used for producing thiophenes at large scale. Key words : Agrobacterium rhizogenes , marigold, rhizoclones, biocidal.

Endophytes reside in different parts of the poppy plant and perform the tissue-specific functions. Most leaf endophytes modulate photosynthetic efficiency, plant growth, and productivity while capsule endophytes modulate alkaloid biosynthesis. Endophytes promote plant growth, provide protection from environmental stresses and are the source of important secondary metabolites. Here, we established that the endophytes of opium poppy Papaver somniferum L. may play a role in the modulation of plant productivity and benzylisoquinoline alkaloid (BIA) biosynthesis. A total of 22 endophytes isolated from leaves, roots, capsules and seeds of the poppy plants were identified. Isolated endophytes were used to inoculate the endophytes free poppy seeds and screened for their ability to improve plant productivity and BIA production. It was evident that the endophytes from leaf were involved in improving photosynthetic efficiency, and thus crop growth and yield and the endophytes from capsule were involved in enhancing BIA biosynthesis. Capsule endophytes of alkaloid-rich P. somniferum cv. Sampada enhanced BIA production even in alkaloid-less cv. Sujata. Expression study of the genes involved in BIA biosynthesis conferred the differential regulation of their expression in the presence of capsule endophytes. The capsule endophyte SM1B (Acinetobacter) upregulated the expression of the key genes for the BIA biosynthesis except thebaine 6-O-demethylase (T6ODM) and codeine O-demethylase (CODM). On the other hand, another capsule endophyte SM3B (Marmoricola sp.) could upregulate both T6ODM and CODM. Colonization of poppy plant by endophytes isolated from leaves, roots and capsules found to be higher in their respective plant parts confirmed their tissue-specific role. Overall, the results demonstrate the specific role of endophytes in the modulation of host plant productivity and BIA production.

The biochars functionalized with polyethylimine (BPE), orthosilicate and polyaniline were evaluated for solid phase extraction of pomegranate phenolics, namely gallic acid, rutin, ellagic acid, naringin, quercetin, apigenin and kaempferol. Characterization of composites of biochar for morphology, functional group and elemental composition has been done. Solid phase extraction cartridges packed with these composites were used for extraction. Most of these biochar composites attained nano-sized porous structure. Functional group analysis suggests that oxygenated groups of biochar were interacted with electrophilic primary amines and polysilane chain of polyethylimine and orthosilicate, respectively. The formation of biochar-polyaniline composite occurred through emeraldine base. All composites exhibited good retention capacity for all phenolics except kaempferol. BPE composites were found suitable for recovery of ellagic acid at present solvent system (aqueous methanol). The process was optimized by a quadratic model suggesting the pre-concentration (60–95%) of ellagic acid (quadratic polynomial relationship, r2 = 1.00). Breakthrough curves were derived for the ellagic acid, which provide the information of retention equilibrium volume, column capacity and recovery of ellagic acid for the BPE packed solid phase extraction cartridges. © 2015 Curtin University of Technology and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Poppy has been a plant of much importance and interest since time immemorial. In our 196 accessions, we observed, identified and selected distinct plants containing specific nature of capsules. These capsules if properly grouped according to the number of stigmatic rays – ranging from five to sixteen can become a useful morphological marker for farmers which will assist them instantaneously for selection of yield parameters related to their interests (seeds and or opiate alkaloids). In this investigation we explored the relation between notches in capsules with the agro-economical traits – seed yield and major opiate alkaloid content using plant breeding, bio-statistical and analytical tools and techniques for the first time in this crop. Briefly our study indicated that the rate of grain filling in poppy seeds is indirectly related and the intensity of colour and density of latex is directly related to the population of notches on their respective capsules.

In order to develop new lead from plant, natural product drug discovery is one of the popular choices which deal numerous unprecedented challenges. Lupeol, a monohydroxylated pentacyclic triterpenoid is abundantly distributed in the plants across genus in varying amount and posses antimalarial potential. However, the therapeutic potential of pentacyclic triterpenes is still under-exploited due to their low intestinal absorption. In the present study, a nanoemulsion preconcentrate (NPs) of lupeol with oil phase and ion surfactants was prepared and evaluated for antimalarial action. Lupeol was isolated and characterized from aerial parts of Stereospermum suaveolens DC. Oil phase comprising caprylic acid: oleic acid (2:1) and Smix (surfactant and co-surfactant) was used to develop a colloidal drug carrier following low energy nanoemulsion formation method. The Smix was optimized using tween 20 and transcutol HP (Km 2:1). Optimization of nanoemulsion was achieved in terms of thermodynamic stability, phase behaviour, globule size, polydispersity, rate of drug release, and high solubility without variable absorption for stable nanoemulsion. Developed NPs was investigated for in-vivo antimalarial efficacy. Improved efficacy was observed with a half dose of lupeol in nanoemulsion which attributed to a significant increase in blood glucose and haemoglobin level as compared with vehicle-treated infected mice. The present study is demonstrating that optimized nanoemulsion preconcentrate could be applied as a drug carrier for effective pentacyclic triterpene delivery and improved therapeutic action.

Dumping of acidic mine waste poses severe threats to the ecosystem due to high acidity, nutrient deficiency and mobility of toxic metals. The present study has been undertaken on phytoremediation by amending the acidic soil/mine waste with biochar (BC) and plantation of palmarosa (Cymbopogon martini (Roxb.) Wats. A greenhouse experiment in different combinations of biochar and acidic mine waste was conducted to assess the phytoremediation efficiency of palmarosa by BC amendments. Results indicate that the palmarosa tolerates multiple stresses effectively with a 54 % metal tolerance index (MTI) and capable of reducing acid production from the acidic mine waste alone. BC incorporation in the mine waste and soil treatments significantly enhanced the palmarosa biomass (1.11-3.3 times) and oil content by liming the acid, immobilization of metals and improving the soil quality. BC addition in highly acidic mine waste amplified the phytoremediation efficiency and mitigates abiotic oxidative stress on plants (MTI 84 % to >100 %). BC aided palmarosa plantation shifted the soil from high-risk assessment code (RAC) to low RAC for vegetation. Biochar amendments along with palmarosa plantation offer a sustainable technology for phytostabilization of highly acidic mine waste along with the production of industrially important essential oil.

Fungi mediated arsenic (As) stress modulation has emerged as an important strategy for the mitigation of As mediated stress management in plants for reducing As contamination to the food chain. In the present study, total of 45 fungal strains were isolated from the three As contaminated sites of West Bengal, India. These strains were morphologically different and inhibited variable As tolerance (10 to 5000 mg l−1As). Total 21 fungal isolates, tolerant up to 5000 mg l−1 AsV, were investigated for As removal (10 mg l−1 As) after 21 d of cultivation under laboratory conditions. The As bioaccumulation in fungal biomass ranged between 0.146 to 11.36 g kg−1 biomass. Range of volatilized As was between 0.05 to 53.39 mg kg−1 biomass. Most promising bioaccumulation and biovolatilization potential were observed in strains viz., 2WS1, 3WS1 and 2WS9. Strain 2WS1 showed highest As biovolatilization (53.39 mg kg−1 biomass) and was identified as Humicola sp. using ITS/5.8S rDNA gene sequencing. This is the first report of Humicola sp. having As biomethylation property. Best first 8 As biomethylating fungal strains were further tested for their As remediation and PGP potential in Bacopa monnieri plant grown in As contaminated soil (20 mg kg−1) in a pot experiment under greenhouse conditions. The highest leaf stem ratio and lowest As content in leaf tissues were observed in 2WS1 inoculated Bacopa monnieri plants. The presence of arsM gene in 2WS1 strain suggests As biovolatilization as possible bioremediation and As stress mitigation strategy of 2WS1. Therefore, application of this strain of Humicola sp. strain 2WS1 in As contaminated soils could be a potential and realistic mitigation strategy for reducing As contamination to cropping system coupled with enhanced productivity.

Uraria picta (Jacq.) Desv. ex DC. (Family Papilionaceae) is a critically endangered plant and one of the most important ingredients among the ten herbs used for ayurvedic formulation called as Dashmula. Considering the importance of the plant, the present investigation was undertaken to (i) evaluate and assess the genetic variability among the 23 accessions of U. picta based on various morpho-metric traits including rhoifolin content in root and aerial part and RAPD profiling (ii) estimate various statistical parameters such as broad sense heritability, genetic advance, direction and magnitude of correlation among the various morpho-metric traits as selection parameters and (iii) identification of potential accessions for their possible application in genetic improvement. The accession UP-18 was found to be most promising as the rhoifolin content in aerial part was 0.67 %, and in the root, it was 0.19 %. While the accessions UP-21 (1.01 %) followed by UP-19 (0.78 %), UP-11 (0.75 %) had highest rhoifolin content in aerial plant part. On the basis of growth and yield performance at CIMAP, Lucknow, UP-21, and UP-22 accessions performed well as compared to rest of the accessions. The RAPD profiling also identified accessions UP-23, UP-21, and UP-01 more genetically diverse which could be utilized in future breeding program to further broaden genetic variability and select desired plant type in Uraria picta.

The current study was undertaken to estimate the morphological and molecular diversity present among the 51 accessions of Indian opium poppy germplasm using Mahalanobis D2 and SCoT (Start Codon Targeted Polymorphism) marker analyses, respectively. A good range of morphological variations were observed among the accessions. The accessions were clumped into nine clusters and the morphological diversity recorded was 69%. Clusters VII and IX showed the maximum inter-cluster distance (117.97) whereas it was found to be minimum (21.53) in case of clusters II and III. The morphological trait, seed yield per capsule, contributed maximum (17.30%) towards the genetic divergence followed by thebaine content (14.56%) and papaverine content (14.06%). In contrast to the morphological diversity, genetic diversity at molecular level was found to be limited (33%), although successfully detected by utilizing DNA markers targeting coding regions of genome (SCoT markers). The outcome of the study has prospects in identification of lines with desirable traits to be utilized in future breeding programmes.

Background: Phenylpropylene biosynthesis pathway plays a crucial role in the vanillin and their derivative(s) production in the plants. The intermediate of vanillin synthesis i.e. cinnamic acid (CA) is converted into 2-Hydroxy 4-MethoxyBenzaldehyde (HMB) in Decalepis arayalpathra having a number of therapeutic value. Objective : Microwave-assisted modifications in cinnamic acid were planned for potential anticancer properties with better yield and efficiency. The present study also confirms the presence of HMB and its precursor i.e. cinnamic acid in D. arayalpathra tubers. Methods: We used a single step Microwave Assisted Synthesis (MAS) to modify cinnamic acid, and then examined the synthetic and natural cinnamic acid derivatives anticancer potential against six human cancer (K-562, WRL-68, A549, A431, MCF-7, and COLO-201) and two normal (L-132 and HEK-293) cell lines at 2, 10 and 50 µg/ml concentrations. Results: β-bromostyrene and β -nitrostyrene have shown inhibition with IC50 values ranging 0.10-21 µM and 0.03-0.06 µM, respectively to the cancer cell lines. β-bromostyrene was the most potent anticancer derivative of CA with better cellular safety and biocompatibility. Conclusions: The present study of microwave-assisted synthesis demonstrates a single-step modification in cinnamic acid. MAS is a fast, reliable, and robust method. The resultant compounds have shown in-vitro anticancer activity against human lung carcinoma and breast adenocarcinoma.

The modification of rhizosphere microbial diversity and ecological processes are of rising interest as shifting in microbial community structure impacts the mutual role of host-microbe interactions. Nevertheless, the connection between host-microbial community diversity, their function under biotic stress in addition to their impact on plant performances is poorly understood. The study was designed with the aim to analyze the tripartite interactions among Chitiniphilus sp., Streptomyces sp. and their combination with indigenous rhizospheric microbial population of Bacopa monnieri for enhancing the plant growth and bacoside A content under Meloidogyne incognita stress. Overall, plants treated with the microbial combination recorded enhanced growth as illustrated by significantly higher biomass (2.0 fold), nitrogen uptake (1.8 fold) and bacoside A content (1.3 fold) along with biocontrol efficacy (58.5%) under nematode infected field. The denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE) fingerprints of 16S-rDNA revealed that microbial inoculations are major initiators of bacterial community structure in the plant rhizosphere. Additionally, the plants treated with microbial combination showed maximum diversity viz., Shannon's (3.29), Margalef's (4.21), and Simpson's (0.96) indices. Likewise the metabolic profiling data also showed a significant variation among the diversity and evenness indices upon microbial application on the native microflora. We surmise that the application of beneficial microbes in combinational mode not only helped in improving the microbial community structure but also successfully enhanced plant and soil health under biotic stress.

Arylbenzimidazoles have been synthesized as antimycobacterial agents. An efficient synthesis has been developed for 2-arylbenzimidazoles from o-phenylenediamines and aromatic aldehydes in molecular sieves-methanol system. The methodology is straightforward to get 2-arylbenzimidazoles (3a–3z) in excellent yields with high chemoselectivity over 2-aryl-1-benzylbenzimidazoles (4a–4z). All these benzimidazole analogues were evaluated against M. tuberculosis in BACTEC radiometric assay. The compounds 4y and 4z exhibited potential antitubercular activity against M. tuberculosis H37RV, MIC at 16 µM and 24 µM respectively. The best compound of the series i.e. compound 4y was well tolerated by Swiss-albino mice in acute oral toxicity. Compound 4y possessing a diarylbenzimidazole core, can further be optimized for better activity.

This article describes the study to standardize phytochemically and distinguish Swertia chirayita from that of possible substitution/adulteration using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC) with photodiode array detector (PDA) and chemometric tools viz. principal component analysis (PCA) and hierarchical clustering analysis (HCA). Five ecotypes of Swertia chirayita and five possible substitutions, e.g.,Swertia bimaculata (SB), Swertia chordata (SCH), Swertia ciliata (SCL), Swertia paniculata (SP), and Halenia elliptica (HE) collected from different Indian Himalayan region. Samples evaluated for 04 marker compounds- swertiamarin (SM), mangiferin (MF), gentiopicroside (GP), and sweroside (SW). Reverse phase column (Waters Acquity BEH C18, 50 mm × 2.1 mm , 1.7 μm) provided high resolution for all target analytes with binary gradient elution. The detector response was linear (concentration 2.5–125 μg/mL, R2 > 0.999). The limit of detection (LOD) and quantification (LOQ) of targeted compounds was in the range of 1.40–2.06 and 4.57–6.27 μg/mL respectively. The combined relative standard deviation (%RSD) for intra-day and inter-day precision values were less than 2%. The recoveries study comply the method suitability. Chromatogram similarity analysis based on congruence coefficient was higher than 0.925 for the chirayita ecotypes while much lower than 0.629 for possible substitutes. HCA showed that the samples could be clustered (all 5 clusters in two-level) reasonably into different ecotypes and substitutes. HCA together with loading plots has indicated different chemical properties of all five groups. PCA results showed that the discrimination of chirayita ecotypes is because of the presence of SW while SM may have more influence on the targeted substitutes to discriminate from chirayita ecotypes. Therefore, UPLC fingerprint in association with chemometric tools provides a reliable and accurate quality assessment and detection of possible adulteration.

Plants play an important role in the removal of excess heavy metals from soil and water. Medicinal plants can also have non-traditional use in phytoremediation technologies. Among the heavy metals, Cadmium (Cd) is the most abundant and readily taken up by the crop plants. Plant metallothioneins (MTs) are small proteins having cysteine-rich residues and appear to play key roles in metal homoeostasis. Plant metallothionein 2 (MT 2) from Coptis japonica (Gold-thread; CjMT 2) is a typical member of this subfamily and features two cysteine-rich regions containing eight and six cysteine residues, respectively, separated by 42 amino acids long linker region. In-silico analysis of MT 2 protein sequences of C. japonica was performed. In this study, ab initio methods were utilised for the prediction of three-dimensional structure of CjMT 2. After structure validation, heavy metal-binding sites were predicted for the selected modelled structures of CjMT 2. To obtain Cd

Transcriptome analysis and biochemical characterization of the putative l-3,4-dihydroxyphenylalanine (l-DOPA) pathway in Mucuna pruriens (L.) DC have been performed. Spatio-temporal quantification of the putative l-DOPA biosynthetic pathway genes and its correlation with respective metabolites was established. l-tyrosine, l-DOPA, and dopamine from all plant parts were quantified. The de novo transcriptome analysis was performed using leaves of the selected M. pruriens mutant T-IV-9 during maturity. The putative l-DOPA pathway and its regulatory genes were retrieved from transcriptome data and the l-DOPA pathway was biochemically characterized. The spatial and temporal gene expression for the l-DOPA pathway was identified with respect to the chemical constituents. l-tyrosine, l-DOPA, and dopamine contents were highest in leaves during maturity (about 170-day-old plants). The polyphenol oxidase (PPO) was highly expressed in tender stems (230-fold higher as compared to seeds) as well as a high l-DOPA content. The PPO gene was highly expressed in leaves (3367.93 in FPKM) with a 79-fold increase compared to control plants during maturity. l-DOPA was found in every part with varied levels. The highest l-DOPA content was found in mature dried seed (3.18–5.8%), whereas the lowest amount was recorded in mature and dried leaves. The reproductive parts of the plant had a higher amount of l-DOPA content (0.9–5.8%) compared to the vegetative parts (0.2–0.91%). Various amino acid transporters and permeases were expressed in M. pruriens. The transcripts of dopa decarboxylase (DDC) were found in almost all parts of the plant, but its higher content was limited to the leaf.

Tissue specific biosynthesis of secondary metabolites is a distinguished feature of medicinal plants. Withania somnifera, source of pharmaceutically important withanolides biosynthesizes withaferin-A in leaves and withanolide-A in roots. To increase the in planta withanolides production, a sustainable approach needs to be explored. Here, we isolated endophytes from different parts of W. somnifera plants and their promising role in in planta withanolide biosynthesis was established in both in-vivo grown as well in in-vitro raised composite W. somnifera plants. Overall, the fungal endophytes improved photosynthesis, plant growth and biomass, and the root-associated bacterial endophytes enhanced the withanolide content in both in-vivo and in-vitro grown plants by modulating the expression of withanolide biosynthesis genes in leaves and roots. Surprisingly, a few indole-3-acetic acid (IAA)-producing and nitrogen-fixing root-associated endophytes could induce the biosynthesis of withaferin-A in roots by inducing in planta IAA-production and upregulating the expression of withanolide biosynthesis genes especially MEP-pathway genes (DXS and DXR) in roots as well. Results indicate the role of endophytes in modulating the synthesis and site of withanolides production and the selected endophytes can be used for enhancing the in planta withanolide production and enriching roots with pharmaceutically important withaferin-A which is generally absent in roots.

The present study aimed to evaluate the effect of biochar derived from the distilled waste of Cymbopogon winterianus at two different pyrolysis temperatures (450°C and 850°C) on the chemical and biological properties of sandy loamy soil (SLS) and its subsequent impact on plant growth. Pot experiments utilizing Bacopa monnieri were performed in a greenhouse with four different application rates of biochar (2%, 4%, 6%, and 8% (w/w)) for 120 days. Biochar induced alterations in soil properties (nutrients, enzymes, and microbes) and plant responses (yield, biocide and antioxidant content) to biochar addition were measured. Biochar application, notably improved the soil carbon, cation exchange capacity, and the availability of NH4 + and phosphorus. Initially, biochar produced at the lower temperature had more effect on the available nitrogen, phosphorus, soil enzymatic properties, and plant biomass growth. After 120 days, the pyrolysis temperature had only a marginal influence on biochar-induced effects on soil pH, WHC, and soil enzymatic activities. Our results suggest that C. winterianus derived biochar amendment leads to an overall amelioration of soil fertility and plant growth improvement. In specific biochar produced at lower temperatures (450°C) was more effective for improvement of plant biomass and soil characteristics.

Sixty six plants raised via direct shoot bud organogenesis from pre-plasmolysed leaf explants of Catharanthus roseus were assessed under in vivo conditions for their physio-morpho traits, tryptophan metabolism, genetic fidelity and alkaloid profile. Morphologically all plants were parent like except the three morpho-types i.e. broad cup-shaped leaves, dwarf phenotype and enlarged pink corona. Vindoline was detected in most of the plants in substantial amount while ajmalicine, ajmaline and catharanthine were detected in few plants only. More than eightfold increased vindoline (0.08 % dry wt.) was showed by plant no. 1, 4 and 39. Except plant no. 54, which accumulated the highest alkaloid content of 3.09 % dry wt. with tryptophan content of 0.0283 % dry wt., majority of the plants showed a negative correlation between total alkaloid content and tryptophan accumulation and strong positive correlation between tryptophan content and 5-methyltryptophan tolerance. ISSR and RAPD profile of seventeen randomly selected, field established plants was generated by using 10 ISSR and 60 RAPD primers. In RAPD, a total of 753 bands were detected, out of which 624 (82.87 %) were monomorphic. In ISSR profiling, a total of 205 bands were detected out of which 200 bands were monomorphic (97.56 %) and only 5 bands were found to be polymorphic. Highly significant data for the monomorphic banding pattern across all the three genotypes (p

3-(3',4',5'-Trimethoxyphenyl)-4,5,6-trimethoxy,2-(3″,4″-methylenedioxybenzylidene)-indan-1-one (1) is an optimized anti-cancer lead molecule obtained on modification of gallic acid, a plant phenolic acid. It exhibited potent cytotoxicities (IC50=0.010-14.76μM) against various human carcinoma cells. In cell cycle analysis, benzylidene indanone 1 induced G2/M phase arrest in both MCF-7 and MDA-MB-231 cells. It also induced apoptosis in DU145 cells which was evident by cleavage of PARP. In Ehrlich ascites carcinoma, benzylidene indanone 1 showed 45.48% inhibition of tumour growth at 20mg/kg dose in Swiss albino mice. Further, in sub-acute toxicity experiment in Swiss-albino mice, it was found to be non-toxic up to 100mg/kg dose for 28days. The lead compound benzylidene indanone 1 can further be optimized for better anti-cancer activity.

Pluchea lanceolata (DC.) Oliv. & Hiern (Rasana) is an important medicinal plant due to its usage in number of Ayurvedic formulations. First time, chemical composition of essential oil from the aerial part of P. lanceolata was analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS) and NMR spectroscopy. Ex-vivo cholinesterase inhibitory activity of the essential oil was also evaluated using mouse brain homogenate. The major components were linalool (32.2%), β-caryophyllene (8.5%), α-terpineol (8.0%), spathulenol (7.4%), linalylacetate (5.6%), naphthalene, 1,6-dimethyl-4-(1-methylethyl)- (4.3%), α-copaene (3.6%), epi-cubebol (3.6%) and trans-α-bergamontene (3.1%). The experimental results showed that hydrodistilate of P. lanceolata significantly inhibited acetylcholinesterase activity (IC 50 value 2.54 ± 0.03 µg/mL).

Curcumin possesses an attractive chemical structure with highly conjugated diferuloylmethane core. Curcumin mimics have been designed and prepared with an additional bridged phenyl ring in conjugation. Fourteen diverse analogues were evaluated against a panel of human cancer cell lines. The best analogue of the series i.e. compound 6a exhibited potent cytotoxicity against A431, epidermoid carcinoma cell line (IC50 = 1.5 μM) and DLD1, colorectal adenocarcinoma cell line (IC50 = 6.9 μM). In tubulin kinetics experiment, compound 6a destabilized polymerisation process (IC50 = 4.68 μM). In cell cycle analysis, compound 6a exerted G2/M phase arrest in A431 cells and induced apoptosis. In Ehrlich Ascites Carcinoma in Swiss-albino mice, compound 6a showed 78.6% tumour reduction at 80 mg/kg dose and 57% solid tumour reduction at 150 mg/kg dose. Further, in acute-oral toxicity experiment in rodent model, compound 6a was given in three different oral doses to Swiss albino mice. There were non-significant changes in various biochemical parameters and major body organs studied, including their absolute and relative weights. It was tolerable up to 300 mg/kg dose in Swiss-albino mice. The present study shows that the novel curcumin mimic 6a is a safe and efficacious anticancer compound. However, it needs to be optimized for better efficacy.

Ethnopharmacological relevance Tejovati (Zanthoxylum armatum DC; Family- Rutaceae) popularly known as toothache tree is widely distributed in sub-tropical Himalaya region. Traditionally, The Southeast Asian population of Indo-Nepal origin uses it to treat asthma, gout, pain, and inflammation. The Ayurvedic action of the plant includes the balancing of Vata-Kapha in the body. Which lead to various ailments related to the circulation of blood and water, digestion, immunity, and skin. Therefore, in-vitro xanthine oxidase (XO) inhibition potential of the extract could be worth to explore prospect in the prevention/treatment of gouty affections of the joints and other diseases. Aim of study Anti-inflammatory and antioxidant potential of Z. armatum fruit (ZAF) has been reported. To date, no scientific study to validate the claim for gout treatment/management has been attempted so far. The present study deals with the xanthine oxidase inhibitory potential of a various extract of ZAF and marker-based high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) standardization of most active fraction. Materials and methods Liquid-liquid partioning of crude methanol extract of the ZAF followed by repeated column chromatography of most active fraction has resulted in the isolation of seven compounds. Five distinct groups of compounds were isolated, purified, and identified. We have investigated the therapeutic action of ZAF in the management of gout through in-vitro assay of XO, a key enzyme involved in gout pathogenesis. Results Phytochemical investigation of ZAF has resulted in the isolation of seven compounds of diverse nature. It is noteworthy to mention that out of seven, five compounds have shown the xanthine oxidase inhibitory action. The ethyl acetate fraction was most potent to inhibit XO. The XO inhibitory activity (IC50 values) of isolated marker chemical was ranging from 5.62 to 41.21 µM. Three compounds viz. acetyl phenyl acetate (ZA-2), prudomestin (ZA-6), and tambulin (ZA-7) showed the most potent XO inhibitory activity (IC50 ≈ 6 µM) comparable with a positive control (Allopurinol, IC50, 3.38 µM). This is the first validated HPLC-PDA method for simultaneous analysis and accurate quantification of seven compounds (phenolic acid, acetyl phenyl acetate, xylopyranoside, diphenyl ether and three flavones) in ZAF as well as their distribution in other tissues of the plant. Conclusion Most potent three chemicals (ZA-2, 6 and 7) could be considered as bioactive to ensure the robust quality of the enriched fraction of ZAF with defined XO inhibition potential. Therefore, either single purified component or their enriched fraction could be a better choice for the management of gout than the crude extract of ZAF. Developed HPLC method is suitable for quality assurance analysis and process control of ZAF derived product intended for gout management. XO inhibitory potential exhibited by the characterized compounds validate the traditional use of this ZAF for the treatment of gout. Further, a detailed study is required to assess the effect of ZAF chemicals on serum uric acid and mechanism of XO inhibition.

Background Lawsonia inermis L. is a well-documented plant for cosmetic as well as medicinal properties. It is used by local communities in India and Nigeria for the treatment of many parasitic diseases, including malaria. Hypothesis/purpose Earlier studies on the plant's antiplasmodial activity were not assigned to any phytochemical with no quality assurance data. In this report, a recent chemically characterized extract and it's major constituent were investigated for in vitro antiplasmodial activity on chloroquine sensitive NF-54 strain. Furtherly, the potent extract and this constituent were assessed in vivo in Plasmodium berghei infected mice. The bioactive phytochemical and enriched extract were also monitored against various oxidative stress parameters. Study design/method The extract characterization was done by the quantitative analysis of eight phytochemicals using gradient reverse phase HPLC method. In vitro antiplasmodial activity was evaluated on chloroquine sensitive NF-54 strain by the determination of pfLDH activity. In vivo activity of the most potent extract and constituent were evaluated in P. berghei infected mice upon oral administration. The estimation of oxidative stress was done by monitoring various enzymatic and non-enzymatic parameters. Results The ethyl acetate extract of leaves (IC50 9.00 ± 0.68 µg/ml) and fraxetin (IC50 19.21 ± 1.04 µM) were the most effective in in vitro assays therefore selected for in vivo tests. The administration of the ethyl acetate extract of leaves and fraxetin to the infected mice resulted in significant (p Conclusion It was evident from the experiments that ethyl acetate extract of L. inermis and fraxetin were able to suppress the oxidative damage by augmenting endogenous antioxidant system and thus ameliorated the plasmodium infection in mice.

The current scenario of economic and social aspects led to the development of smart and new biomaterials. Sustainable bio nano approaches are focusing on environmentally friendly biomaterials from renewable resources. The renewable bio nano materials are often produced directly from natural or recycled products. The natural products are biodegradable and mostly consist of cellulose, chitosan, starch, collagen, soy protein, and casein. The cellulose is a grade one biomaterial with appealing features including biocompatibility and biodegradability. These renewable materials play an important role in reducing global warming by preventing the release of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere. The cellulose microfibrils are made up of a linear chain of nanofibrils of amorphous and crystalline character. Natural cellulose represents the cellulose I type polymorph which is thermodynamically metastable. The isolation of nanocellulose from the cellulose involves several methods. Nanocellulose possesses unique propensities such as high surface area-to-volume ratio, young modulus, high tensile strength, and coefficient of thermal expansion. Nanocellulose is mainly of two types, nanofiber and nanocrystals. Nanocellulose could be altered in long fibers, suspension, and film through various processes and modifications.

The present study was undertaken to evaluate the effect of alcoholic extract of Dalbergia sissoo leaf extract (DSE) on isoproterenol (ISP)-induced myocardial injury in rats. Evaluation of three doses (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg of body weight) of DSE was done in ISP-treated rats. ISP was used at 85 mg/kg body weight by subcutaneous route for two subsequent days to induce myocardial injury in rats. Assessment of myocardial injury was done by estimation of different cardiac injury markers like LDH, CK-MB. Serum cholesterol, LDL, HDL, triglycerides in serum, myocardial infarcted area, oxidative stress and histopathology in heart tissue were also assessed in rats. Mean arterial pressure and heart rate were recorded in all the groups. Rats pretreated with DSE (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg of body weight) showed significant (p < 0.05-0.001) improvement in the heart weight/body weight ratio, myocardial infarcted areas, heart rate and mean arterial pressure in ISP-induced myocardial injury. DSE showed significant (p < 0.05-0.001) improvement in serum LDH, CK-MB, cholesterol, LDL and triglyceride levels at all the dose levels. However, DSE pretreatment had no significant effect on serum HDL level. Pretreatment with DSE (30, 100 and 300 mg/kg body weight) showed significant (p < 0.001) reduction in MDA level in comparison with myocardial injured rats. Further, antioxidant potential was also improved in terms of improved activities of reduced glutathione, superoxide dismutase and catalase with the DSE pretreatment. Histopathology also showed significant improvement in heart tissue. The study suggests that DSE showed beneficial effect in ISP-induced myocardial injury in rats.